Why Study The Bible?
Imagine you were raised by wolves and had no knowledge of American history or popular culture. Suddenly, you're rescued from your wolf family and thrust into the "real world." You diligently learn English and can quote the definition of thousands of words. You feel ready to take on society. But then you're brought to a 4th of July celebration and are confused by the horrified gasps from fellow partygoers as you grab the nearest cloth (Old Glory herself) and politely wipe your mouth. Attempting to explain your intentions, you waive your middle finger at your host. There are more horrified gasps as you're ushered out the door, shunned by your more civilized peers. If only you'd known that the American flag is not a napkin but a sacred symbol of our freedom, or that flagging one's middle finger at someone instructs them to, well, if you weren't raised by wolves, you'd know....
Let's face it. Words can only go so far in conveying meaning; communication requires a thorough knowledge of stories and symbols from our immediate and distant pasts. In our Western culture, many of those symbols derive from Biblical stories, and accordingly, fiction and non-fiction authors from ancient through post-Modern times employ Biblical symbolism to enhance their messages. Thus, regardless of one's religious convictions, a thorough knowledge of Bible lore is essential to a deep understanding of almost any Western work of literary merit.
Therefore, in the context of British Literature or AP English, we study the Bible not from a religious or spiritual perspective, but to understand the way in which the Bible informs the novels, plays, and poetry we read.
Studying the Bible is also important from a literary and historical perspective. But don't take my word for it. View excerpts of this lecture by UC Berkeley professor Robert Alter, called "The Bible Through Literary Eyes." You're welcome to watch the entire lecture, but I warn you that it becomes quite dense in spots. Instead, you may wish simply to review the following sections: Symbolism and Partial Repetition (@20-24 minute mark); Wooing of Rebekah and Partial Repetition (@33-54 minute mark); macrorepetition and annunciation/role of women (@54 to 1:12 mark).
As you read the following information, you may have questions - feel free to use
by double-clicking on any word and a pop-up window will give you the definition or background information.
WOMEN IN THE BIBLE
The following synopses of female Biblical characters is not exhaustive; however, the women featured are those who are frequently referenced in other works. If you meet a worthy Bible woman you think should be included, feel free to add her, provided you follow the form and tone of the entries below.
THE OLD TESTAMENT
And You Thought Eve Was The Root of All Evil: Meet Lilith
She’s mentioned in the Bible only once (and then in only certain translations), and experts argue over whether she is an invention of 13th century anti-semitism or a Bible story of Adam's first wife. Depending upon which expert one consults, Lilith is a paragon of female power or a blood-sucking, infanticidal Bride of Satan. The Religious Studies Department at Kenyon College in Ohio has an interesting **Article regarding Lilith**, which you should read and become familiar with.
Lilith's Appearance in Literature
As the original femme fatale, Lilith has fascinated writers and artists for centuries, appearing in such works as Milton's Paradise Lost and Goethe's Faust. Scan the following **Appendix to Changing Literary Representations of Lilith**, a research project by Amy Scerba of Carnegie Mellon University, in order to gain an idea regarding Lilith's popularity.
John Collier, Lilith, Oil On Canvas, 1887
The Atkinson Art Gallery, Southport, England
All About Eve (Well, Some About Eve)
Gaugain's "Eve-Don't Listen to the Liar"
Watercolor and Paste, Marion Koogler McNay Art Museum, San Antonio, Texas
Eve's Creation
The conflicting stories of Eve's creation are intriguing, especially because many mainstream Biblical commentaries focus only on the story of God making Eve from Adam's rib. Yet, the first Creation story indicates that God made both Adam and Eve at the same time. As you read these two stories in Genesis, remember that their authors likely differ, and consider which story is likely featured more prominently in Western patriarchal writings. Please also note that the stories differ with respect to the timing of God's creation of the animal Kingdom. The First Creation Story The Second Creation Story
Eve's Sin
Read the Story of Eve's Sin in Genesis 3, and then skim the text of this speech by Dr. Wendy Larson Harris, a professor at Roanoke College in Virginia. Note that while she indicates that Jewish and Christian tradition show Eve alone in the garden, there are many theologians who claim that the Serpeant's use of plural verbs in referring to Eve indicates that Adam must have been there with her. If he had been present, does that change the analysis regarding the relative guilt of either Adam or Eve?
Sarah: Wife? Sister? Wife? Sister?
Sarah's story is mind-boggling to 21st century sensibilities. By all accounts a beautiful woman whom all men desired, she was married to her half-brother (her father's son), which was apparently a common occurrence back in ancient times. Because she possessed such beauty, her husband Abraham feared that, while they journeyed to Egypt, he would be murdered so men could take her as their own. To avoid such a catastrophe, Abraham instructed Sarah that, wherever they traveled, they would claim she was simply his sister. As a result, he watched her become the wife of powerful men in order to save his own skin. Abraham's actions did not make God happy, though note who is threatened with punishment. Abraham Gives His Sister/Wife to Pharaoh Abraham Gives His Sister/Wife to King
What Happened to Menopause?
Initially, Sarah could not conceive, and so she gave her slave Hagar to her husband in hopes of having a child (see section on Hagar, below); however, in her ninetieth year, God told Abraham that Sarah would become pregnant with Abraham's child. Upon hearing God's promise, Sarah laughed, but it was actually God who laughed last. She gave birth to a son. Be the first person to add an explanation and reputable citation regarding the name of Sarah's son and receive an extra point on your next essay. (Note that Sarah's name was originally "Sarai," but when God promised that she would conceive, her name was changed to "Sarah.")
Read the Biblical stories of Sarah and her husband Abraham in the links below: God's Promise to Abraham And Sarah Laughed
Hagar And Ishmael (Hagar's Not "The Horrible," But Her Lot Certainly Was)
Hagar was the slave woman chosen by Sarah for Abraham to impregnate; according to the then-law, the resulting son would belong to Sarah and Abraham. When Hagar did become pregnant, she apparently became uppity with Sarah, who was furious and punished Hagar severely; God intervened, in a sense, and Hagar returned to the "family." She gave birth to Ishmael, though the rivalry between Sarah and Hagar and her son did not end, especially after Sarah gave birth to Isaac. After you read the biblical accounts of Hagar, read the first two pages of Dr. Reuven Firestone's "Islam: Jewish and Muslim Sources, Discourses, and Interactions." (Dr. Firestone is Professor of Medieval Jewish Studies at Hebrew Union College in Los Angeles).
Bathsheba: Killer Beauty
Rembrant, "Bathsheba," Paris OK, so maybe it's a bit harsh to have been blaming Abraham for fearing that his wife's beauty might result in his untimely death, given that such a fate is precisely what Uriah suffered at the hands of King David. You will remember David as the young boy who slew Goliath against all odds. Well, the boy grew up and became King, and although he had many wives, when he caught sight of Bathsheba bathing on the roof of the next building (who does that?), he just had to have her. And he did. Apparently it was irrelevant that Bathsheba was already married to Uriah, who was off serving in King David's army. Unfortunately, when Bathsheba became pregnant with King David's child, he couldn't pass the child off as Uriah's, since Uriah had been gone so long and hadn't been available for conjugal visits. In an attempt at cover-up, King David sent for Uriah, assuming that he would sleep with Bathsheba upon returning. But Uriah, citing military code, refused to have any carnal relations with his wife, and so King David's cover-up plans were foiled. So he "did the right thing" and married Bathsheba himself - of course, that meant he first had to kill off Uriah, which he managed to do by sending him off to the front lines of war. God was not happy.
Read the Biblical Account of Bathsheba.
Consider how little this account says about Bathsheba's feelings regarding King David's pursuit of her or of her husband's resulting death. And then, in the Death of Bathsheba's son and birth of Solomon, consider whose sin and pain is given the most play. (And yes, King David and Bathsheba's baby, Solomon, later grows up to become the King Solomon).
Samson and Delilah, Gerrit Van Honthorst, 1615, Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, Ohio
(finally, a woman with clothing!)
Delilah - The Female Judas? Or Was Sampson Just Too Stupid To Live?
As you read the following infamous account of Delilah's Conquest of Sampson, note that while Delilah is commonly thought of as a prostitute (and Sampson apparently had a weakness for those), the Bible does not identify her as such. Note also that she, like Judas, accepts money in exchange for her betrayal (and perhaps that's where she earns her prostitute moniker). However, Judas clearly loved Jesus - are we told here whether Delilah loved Sampson? Did she have a realistic choice in her acceptance of either him or the bribe?
After reading the Biblical account of Samson and Delilah, listen to the following conversation between Nick Reveles, of the San Diego Opera, and Dr. Joseph Columbo, Professor of Theology at the University of San Diego. Their conversation begins @ minute 12:05 and ends @ 17:42, though you might wish to review the Mr. Reveles' synopsis of the Opera "Samson and Delilah" starting @ minute 9:40.
Jezebel: Thrown To The Dogs - Both Then and Now
Gustave Dore, "Finding the Remains of Jezebel," Engraving, 1865
If you haven't read the Biblical Accounts of Jezebel in I Kings and II Kings, you likely hear the name "Jezebel" and assume someone is alluding to a sexually loose woman. But in reality, Jezebel's sin had nothing to do with her own faithfulness; rather, it had to do with turning her husband and his people away from God and to the pagan Baal. In retribution for her long-time championing of a pagan god and allowing her people to turn to sexual lust, Jezebel was tossed out her window and left below to be ripped apart by dogs in the street. Today, it's her reputation that's thrown to the dogs, as she's widely considered to represent sexual promiscuity and unfaithfulness. As you read I and II Kings, determine whether you can locate any places where such a reputation is earned.
Esther: Obedient Wife, Saavy Politician, and Reputed Savior of the Jewish People
Since she has her own book in the Bible, one would assume that Esther's relationship with God was a close one. Yet, God is not mentioned once in the text. Before you read the Book of Esther, skim Professor Wilma McClarty's "An Analysis of the Book of Esther as Literature,"noting especially the many ways in which Professor McClarty illuminates why the Bible is valuable as a literary text. Or, if you'd rather, you may listen to a ten-minute lecture by Yale University Professor Christine Hayes. The section on Esther takes up the first third of the file, which is number 24, called Alternate Visions. The lecture is also available in transcript form, here .
As you focus on this book, note the underlying patriarchal theme inherent in Queen Vashti's brief appearance (or disappearance, as it were).
Ruth: A Study in Contrast -- Deeply Loyal and Disarmingly Forward
Ruth's story is at once one of subservient loyalty and post-modern feminism. Ruth forsakes home and religion in her devotion to her mother-in-law, and yet she manages to overcome her docile nature and proposes to a man. Before reviewing the Book of Ruth, read the last four pages of Professor Claus Westermann's Structure and Intention In The Book of Ruth.
William Blake, 1795, "Naomi Entreating Ruth"
Abigail: What a Good Handmaiden Should Be
Abigail represents the classic role often assigned to women in literaure: counteracting and leveling off their man's testoserone level. In Abigail's case, this meant both taking responsibility for her husband Nabal's inhospitality to King David's men and reminding King David, her future husband (how many wives DID that man need?), that vengeance belongs to the lord. Read Abigail's Story of Humble Service and Faith.
Deborah: So Women DID Get Some Respect
Back in a time when women weren't permitted to run themselves, let alone anything else, Deborah's position as prophetess and judge of Israel is impressive. From her position of power, she was privy to God's plans to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of King Jabin. Those plans, however, involved Barak bringing troops to Mount Tabor, so that God could deliver to him victory over Sisero, who commanded King Jabin's army. For some inexplicable reason, Barak wasn't acting very quickly upon God's command, so Deborah had him brought before her to remind him. For some other inexplicable reason (we aren't told that Deborah was breathtakingly beautiful, or a temptress), God's endorsement of the plan apparently wasn't good enough and Barak refused to proceed unless Deborah accompanied him to Mount Tabor. She acquiesced, but pointed out that if she were to go, the victory would be delivered to a woman, not to Barak. And, in fact, the enemy Sisero WAS delivered to the Israelites by the hand of a woman, though not by Deborah. As you read of Deborah's Military Leadership, consider also the role of the woman who brings death to Sisero.
THE NEW TESTAMENTMary, Mother of Jesus
For a woman who always did what she was told, Mary, the Mother of Jesus, excites great controversy. Her quiet and joyful acquiescence to God's will is, at the very least, seen as representing a reversal of Eve's original disobedience; at the extreme, Mary is worshipped as the co-savior of mankind. She is present at various times throughout Jesus' life, though after his crucifixtion, with one posible exception, there is no mention of her remaining years or death. Mary's story is presented from different perspectives in the Gospels, and you should be familiar with each version. Story of Jesus' Conception Mary's Perspective Also note the account of Elizabeth, who is the mother of John the Baptist. Mary's Perspective of Jesus' birth and early life
Andrea Della Robbia, "Mary, Jesus, Three Cherubs, Italy, @mid-1400's, Enameled Terra Cotta, Louvre, Paris
Did Mary Remain a Virgin?
Many theologians submit that Mary remained a virgin her entire life, and they argue that the references to Jesus' brothers and sisters are merely symbolic references to the way in which Jesus was kin to all mankind. Consider the following passages about Mary as you evaluate such assertions: Mary Asks to See Jesus As he Preaches in Temple and see also Luke 8:19-21 Jesus Preaches in his Hometown
Jesus' Perspective on Mary
As the passages above indicate, Jesus did not give special treatment to his mother Mary. In addition, consider this passage from Luke 11:27-28 when reviewing Mary's importance as the Mother of Christ.
Elizabeth: Can't An Old Woman Catch A Break?
Like Sarah from the Old Testament, Elizabeth was an elderly woman when her husband was told she would conceive a child. In fact, she and Mary were both pregnant at the same time with their soon-to-be-famous progeny (Elizabeth gave birth to a boy who would grow up to be known as John The Baptist). Mary spent time with Elizabeth while pregnant with Jesus. Elizabeth is mentioned in Mary's Perspective, above. Domenico Ghirlandaio, "The Visitation" (Mary and Elizabeth), 1491, The Louvre, Paris
Salome: Sure, Blame the Mother (In This Case, She Might Deserve It)
Salome's story is pretty appalling. She's unfortunate enough to have a mother (Herodius) who (1) marries an uncle (Salome's dad) and then (2) decides the uncle's half-brother is more appealing and dumps Salome's father to marry this brother (Herod). Feeling a bit disgusted by this sordid affair? Well, so was everyone else. In fact, John The Baptist preached openly and loudly against the marriage, and many of Herod's subjects started grumbling that they were suffering God's wrath because Herod had married his brother's wife. Salome's mother wanted John The Baptist to shut up, permanently, but Herod refused to have him killed. Too many people loved John and killing him would only result in his martyrdom. Not one to worry about the consequences of her actions, however, Salome's mother apparently decided that when her own feminine wiles were insufficient to convince Herod to execute John The Baptist, perhaps her nubile daughter could do the trick. That's what centuries of art and literature have always implied, in any event. Herodius is often blamed for arranging that Salome perform the seductive Dance of the Seven Veils for Herod and a group of his cronies. Herod was so impressed with Salome's dance that he vowed publicly to give her anything she asked - including half his Kingdom. While Salome might have preferred a cell phone, her mother demanded that she ask her stepfather for John The Baptist's head. On a platter. Read the story of Salome's Seduction, and consider whether the text truly depicts Salome's mother using her daughter as sexual bait , or whether the events were simply a reflection of the culture. Oh, and you'll note that Salome is named nowhere in the text.
Caravaggio, "Salome with the Head of John the Baptist," late 1500's, National Gallery, London
Martha: A Woman's Work Is Never Done -- or Is It?
Martha, her sister Mary, and their brother Lazarus were unique figures in the Bible because they were apparently intimate friends with Jesus. In fact, Jesus often was a guest in their home. Martha is perhaps most important in highlighting Jesus' position that a woman's role was more than simply to serve. As you read the Story of Martha's Sisterly Frustration in lines 38-42, note the clearly un-patriarchal stance Jesus takes, both regarding women and what's important in life.
Mary Magdalene: The Woman Deserves More Credit Than She Gets (What Else is New?)
Traditionally, Mary Magdalene is portrayed as the prostitute whom Jesus cleansed of demons. Yet, as you read the Biblical accounts listed below, determine whether the text actually supports the idea that Mary worked in the oldest profession. In any event, Mary became a loyal disciple of Jesus. She was so important, in fact, that it was Mary Magdalene to whom Jesus first appeared after his crucifixion. Luke 8: 1-3 Mark 16 John 20
Luca Signorelli, "Crucifiction with Mary Magdalene," 1500, Galleria degli Uffizi, Florence
WOMEN OF THE BIBLE ASSIGNMENTS
Please consult chart below for ELA Standards (in RI, they're known as Grade Span Expectations) and Rubrics
Assignment One: Double Process Essay Assignments (400 points total; 200 for content and 200 for process) The essay topics are explained below. Please use theWriting Workshop linkfor detailed instructions. A.Persuasive Essay: After reading the Women of the Bible wiki, and the accompanying readings, create a thesis statement identifying a pattern or patterns regarding the way women are portrayed in the Bible. Take any position you wish, but be prepared to back it up with evidence. Your paper will be graded not on whether I agree with your thesis, but whether you do a solid job defending that thesis. On the day of the Mad 40, you may bring in a note card with your thesis, topic sentences, and bullet pointed evidence to use while you write.
B.Informational Writing:Select a famous Bible story that interests you and write several paragraphs to add to the class wiki, using the tone and style of the current wiki. (It need not be a Biblical woman, as we can simply another page Wiki page for your subtopic; consider animals in the Bible, Kings, Fathers, Wars, Parables, etc.). On the day of the Mad 40, you may bring a note card with information and citations to include in your Wiki. Assignment Two: Active Reading Notes and On-Line Group Discussion (50 points) As you read and review all the material available in this Women in the Bible segment, take notes, create discussion questions, and look up any words with which you are unfamiliar (the answers.com widget should help with that). Then, participate in a half hour IM conversation with two or three other classmates of your choosing regarding your notes and the material in this Wiki. Please save the discussion in a Word Document that clearly identifies the participants and their screen names; then, print one copy of the document and hand it in on the agreed due date.
Assignment Three: Free Choice of Either "Women of the Bible Test" or 'Women of the Bible Creative Summary" (100 points) Choice A: Multiple Choice Test; you may use your Active Reading Notes provided they do not contain wholesale quoting from the Bible excerpts or this Wiki. Do not assume this multiple choice test is the "easy out." My multilple choice format is designed to be challenging. That being said, it's good practice for college. Choice B: Women of the Bible Creative Summary. This is your opportunity to showcase both your knowledge and your special talents. In essence, you must design a fun or practical summary of the Women of the Bible using whatever format at which you excel. There are three requirements: (1) That you consider your own talents and strengths to determine how best to present.
(2) That you create a rubric for evaluating the creative aspect of your work using standards appropriate to whatever medium you choose.
(3) That you accurately and cleverly summarize, in writing, key aspects of the material presented here.
Here are some ideas, but don’t be constrained by these suggestions:
An Epic poem
Photographic series with posed models (visual elements like these will require a written explanation).
A One Minute Play for each character
A Reality Show
A musical piece echoing the experiences of the women.
Your own original artwork depiicting one of the scenes studied.
Facebook pages for each woman
A Team sport, where players advance yardage or bases by answering questions correctly -no tackling or spiking allowed ;).
Something else creative
Assignment Four: Oral Presentation of Informational Writing (50 points)
Once you've completed Assignment One B (adding a possible section to the class wiki), you'll present your wiki and teach your information to the class. The best wikis will earn a permanent spot on this wiki. All will be graded using the Rubric linked below.
For Further Study (and perhaps some additional ideas regarding your Optional Creative Summary)
1. The Bible is the most widely illustrated piece of literature in the Western canon. You might wish to use Google Images to find other examples of some truly breathtaking art based on Biblical scenes.
2. It's interesting to understand how the various Biblical translations can change the meaning or context of the text. If you're ever interested in comparing a particular passage in several versions, use the Unbound Bible , which provides virtually every Bible translation available. It will do a side-by-side comparison of up to four translations at a time.
3. You already know that Johann Gutenberg invented moveable type, but how familiar are you with his Gutenberg Bible? According to the Harry Ransom Center at the University of Texas, Austin, there are only five complete copies in the United States. The Gutenberg Bible dates back to the 1400's. Take a look one here .
4. You might be interested in reading pre-year 800 writings regarding Biblical teaching, and the Christian Classics Library has many writings of "Early Church Fathers." Take a look at Tertullian's writings on modesty in women's apparel and how that connects to women bringing original sin into the world.
5. If you come across any Bible resources that you think might be interesting to others, add them please.
Habit of Writing:
W12-10 Students use a recursive process, including prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and critiquing, to produce final drafts.
W12-11 Writing extensively
Optional Women of the Bible Creative Summary described in Assignment 3B, above
Self-Created but including requirements described in assignment 3 B, above
Student reads critically
R-12-14.2 Demonstrates the habit of reading widely and extensively* by... Reading from a wide range of genres/kinds of text, including primary and secondary sources, and a variety of authors (e.g., literary, informational, and practical/functional texts) (Local)
Interactive Listening
OC-12-1.4 In oral communication, students demonstrate interactive listening by ... Participating in large and small group discussions showing respect for individual ideas (Local)
See above
Effective Speaking
OC-12-2.5 In oral communication, students make oral presentations by ... Using a variety of strategies of address (e.g., eye contact, speaking rate, volume, articulation, enunciation, pronunciation, inflection, voice modulation, intonation, rhythm, and gesture) to communicate ideas effectively (Local)
OC-12-2.6 In oral communication, students make oral presentations by ... Using tools of technology to enhance message (Local)
Oral Presentation of Informational Writing to Class described in Assignment 4
Why Study The Bible?
Imagine you were raised by wolves and had no knowledge of American history or popular culture. Suddenly, you're rescued from your wolf family and thrust into the "real world." You diligently learn English and can quote the definition of thousands of words. You feel ready to take on society. But then you're brought to a 4th of July celebration and are confused by the horrified gasps from fellow partygoers as you grab the nearest cloth (Old Glory herself) and politely wipe your mouth. Attempting to explain your intentions, you waive your middle finger at your host. There are more horrified gasps as you're ushered out the door, shunned by your more civilized peers. If only you'd known that the American flag is not a napkin but a sacred symbol of our freedom, or that flagging one's middle finger at someone instructs them to, well, if you weren't raised by wolves, you'd know....
Let's face it. Words can only go so far in conveying meaning; communication requires a thorough knowledge of stories and symbols from our immediate and distant pasts. In our Western culture, many of those symbols derive from Biblical stories, and accordingly, fiction and non-fiction authors from ancient through post-Modern times employ Biblical symbolism to enhance their messages. Thus, regardless of one's religious convictions, a thorough knowledge of Bible lore is essential to a deep understanding of almost any Western work of literary merit.
Therefore, in the context of British Literature or AP English, we study the Bible not from a religious or spiritual perspective, but to understand the way in which the Bible informs the novels, plays, and poetry we read.
Studying the Bible is also important from a literary and historical perspective. But don't take my word for it. View excerpts of this lecture by UC Berkeley professor Robert Alter, called "The Bible Through Literary Eyes." You're welcome to watch the entire lecture, but I warn you that it becomes quite dense in spots. Instead, you may wish simply to review the following sections: Symbolism and Partial Repetition (@20-24 minute mark); Wooing of Rebekah and Partial Repetition (@33-54 minute mark); macrorepetition and annunciation/role of women (@54 to 1:12 mark).
As you read the following information, you may have questions - feel free to use
by double-clicking on any word and a pop-up window will give you the definition or background information.
WOMEN IN THE BIBLE
The following synopses of female Biblical characters is not exhaustive; however, the women featured are those who are frequently referenced in other works. If you meet a worthy Bible woman you think should be included, feel free to add her, provided you follow the form and tone of the entries below.
THE OLD TESTAMENT
And You Thought Eve Was The Root of All Evil: Meet Lilith
She’s mentioned in the Bible only once (and then in only certain translations), and experts argue over whether she is an invention of 13th century anti-semitism or a Bible story of Adam's first wife. Depending upon which expert one consults, Lilith is a paragon of female power or a blood-sucking, infanticidal Bride oLilith's Appearance in Literature
As the original femme fatale, Lilith has fascinated writers and artists for centuries, appearing in such works as Milton's Paradise Lost and Goethe's Faust. Scan the following **Appendix to Changing Literary Representations of Lilith**, a research project by Amy Scerba of Carnegie Mellon University, in order to gain an idea regarding Lilith's popularity.
John Collier, Lilith, Oil On Canvas, 1887
The Atkinson Art Gallery, Southport, England
All About Eve (Well, Some About Eve)
Gaugain's "Eve-Don't Listen to the Liar"Watercolor and Paste, Marion Koogler McNay Art Museum, San Antonio, Texas
Eve's Creation
The conflicting stories of Eve's creation are intriguing, especially because many mainstream Biblical commentaries focus only on the story of God making Eve from Adam's rib. Yet, the first Creation story indicates that God made both Adam and Eve at the same time. As you read these two stories in Genesis, remember that their authors likely differ, and consider which story is likely featured more prominently in Western patriarchal writings. Please also note that the stories differ with respect to the timing of God's creation of the animal Kingdom.
The First Creation Story
The Second Creation Story
Eve's Sin
Read the Story of Eve's Sin in Genesis 3, and then skim the text of this speech by Dr. Wendy Larson Harris, a professor at Roanoke College in Virginia. Note that while she indicates that Jewish and Christian tradition show Eve alone in the garden, there are many theologians who claim that the Serpeant's use of plural verbs in referring to Eve indicates that Adam must have been there with her. If he had been present, does that change the analysis regarding the relative guilt of either Adam or Eve?
Sarah: Wife? Sister? Wife? Sister?
Sarah's story is mind-boggling to 21st century sensibilities. By all accounts a beautiful woman whom all men desired, she was married to her half-brother (her father's son), which was apparently a common occurrence back in ancient times. Because she possessed such beauty, her husband Abraham feared that, while they journeyed to Egypt, he would be murdered so men could take her as their own. To avoid such a catastrophe, Abraham instructed Sarah that, wherever they traveled, they would claim she was simply his sister. As a result, he watched her become the wife of powerful men in order to save his own skin. Abraham's actions did not make God happy, though note who is threatened with punishment.
Abraham Gives His Sister/Wife to Pharaoh
Abraham Gives His Sister/Wife to King
What Happened to Menopause?
Initially, Sarah could not conceive, and so she gave her slave Hagar to her husband in hopes of having a child (see section on Hagar, below); however, in her ninetieth year, God told Abraham that Sarah would become pregnant with Abraham's child. Upon hearing God's promise, Sarah laughed, but it was actually God who laughed last. She gave birth to a son. Be the first person to add an explanation and reputable citation regarding the name of Sarah's son and receive an extra point on your next essay. (Note that Sarah's name was originally "Sarai," but when God promised that she would conceive, her name was changed to "Sarah.")
Read the Biblical stories of Sarah and her husband Abraham in the links below:
God's Promise to Abraham
And Sarah Laughed
Hagar And Ishmael (Hagar's Not "The Horrible," But Her Lot Certainly Was)
Hagar was the slave woman chosen by Sarah for Abraham to impregnate; according to the then-law, the resulting son would belong to Sarah and Abraham. When Hagar did become pregnant, she apparently became uppity with Sarah, who was furious and punished Hagar severely; God intervened, in a sense, and Hagar returned to the "family." She gave birth to Ishmael, though the rivalry between Sarah and Hagar and her son did not end, especially after Sarah gave birth to Isaac. After you read the biblical accounts of Hagar, read the first two pages of Dr. Reuven Firestone's "Islam: Jewish and Muslim Sources, Discourses, and Interactions." (Dr. Firestone is Professor of Medieval Jewish Studies at Hebrew Union College in Los Angeles).Bathsheba: Killer Beauty
Rembrant, "Bathsheba," ParisOK, so maybe it's a bit harsh to have been blaming Abraham for fearing that his wife's beauty might result in his untimely death, given that such a fate is precisely what Uriah suffered at the hands of King David. You will remember David as the young boy who slew Goliath against all odds. Well, the boy grew up and became King, and although he had many wives, when he caught sight of Bathsheba bathing on the roof of the next building (who does that?), he just had to have her. And he did. Apparently it was irrelevant that Bathsheba was already married to Uriah, who was off serving in King David's army. Unfortunately, when Bathsheba became pregnant with King David's child, he couldn't pass the child off as Uriah's, since Uriah had been gone so long and hadn't been available for conjugal visits. In an attempt at cover-up, King David sent for Uriah, assuming that he would sleep with Bathsheba upon returning. But Uriah, citing military code, refused to have any carnal relations with his wife, and so King David's cover-up plans were foiled. So he "did the right thing" and married Bathsheba himself - of course, that meant he first had to kill off Uriah, which he managed to do by sending him off to the front lines of war. God was not happy.
Read the Biblical Account of Bathsheba.
Consider how little this account says about Bathsheba's feelings regarding King David's pursuit of her or of her husband's resulting death. And then, in the Death of Bathsheba's son and birth of Solomon, consider whose sin and pain is given the most play. (And yes, King David and Bathsheba's baby, Solomon, later grows up to become the King Solomon).
Samson and Delilah, Gerrit Van Honthorst, 1615, Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, Ohio(finally, a woman with clothing!)
Delilah - The Female Judas? Or Was Sampson Just Too Stupid To Live?
As you read the following infamous account of Delilah's Conquest of Sampson, note that while Delilah is commonly thought of as a prostitute (and Sampson apparently had a weakness for those), the Bible does not identify her as such. Note also that she, like Judas, accepts money in exchange for her betrayal (and perhaps that's where she earns her prostitute moniker). However, Judas clearly loved Jesus - are we told here whether Delilah loved Sampson? Did she have a realistic choice in her acceptance of either him or the bribe?After reading the Biblical account of Samson and Delilah, listen to the following conversation between Nick Reveles, of the San Diego Opera, and Dr. Joseph Columbo, Professor of Theology at the University of San Diego. Their conversation begins @ minute 12:05 and ends @ 17:42, though you might wish to review the Mr. Reveles' synopsis of the Opera "Samson and Delilah" starting @ minute 9:40.
Jezebel: Thrown To The Dogs - Both Then and Now
Gustave Dore, "Finding the Remains of Jezebel," Engraving, 1865
If you haven't read the Biblical Accounts of Jezebel in I Kings and II Kings, you likely hear the name "Jezebel" and assume someone is alluding to a sexually loose woman. But in reality, Jezebel's sin had nothing to do with her own faithfulness; rather, it had to do with turning her husband and his people away from God and to the pagan Baal. In retribution for her long-time championing of a pagan god and allowing her people to turn to sexual lust, Jezebel was tossed out her window and left below to be ripped apart by dogs in the street. Today, it's her reputation that's thrown to the dogs, as she's widely considered to represent sexual promiscuity and unfaithfulness. As you read I and II Kings, determine whether you can locate any places where such a reputation is earned.
Esther: Obedient Wife, Saavy Politician, and Reputed Savior of the Jewish People
Since she has her own book in the Bible, one would assume that Esther's relationship with God was a close one. Yet, God is not mentioned once in the text. Before you read the Book of Esther, skim Professor Wilma McClarty's "An Analysis of the Book of Esther as Literature,"noting especially the many ways in which Professor McClarty illuminates why the Bible is valuable as a literary text. Or, if you'd rather, you may listen to a ten-minute lecture by Yale University Professor Christine Hayes. The section on Esther takes up the first third of the file, which is number 24, called Alternate Visions. The lecture is also available in transcript form, here .
As you focus on this book, note the underlying patriarchal theme inherent in Queen Vashti's brief appearance (or disappearance, as it were).
Ruth: A Study in Contrast -- Deeply Loyal and Disarmingly Forward
Ruth's story is at once one of subservient loyalty and post-modern feminism. Ruth forsakes home and religion in her devotion to her mother-in-law, and yet she manages to overcome her docile nature and proposes to a man. Before reviewing the Book of Ruth, read the last four pages of Professor Claus Westermann's Structure and Intention In The Book of Ruth.
William Blake, 1795, "Naomi Entreating Ruth"
Abigail: What a Good Handmaiden Should Be
Abigail represents the classic role often assigned to women in literaure: counteracting and leveling off their man's testoserone level. In Abigail's case, this meant both taking responsibility for her husband Nabal's inhospitality to King David's men and reminding King David, her future husband (how many wives DID that man need?), that vengeance belongs to the lord. Read Abigail's Story of Humble Service and Faith.
Deborah: So Women DID Get Some Respect
Back in a time when women weren't permitted to run themselves, let alone anything else, Deborah's position as prophetess and judge of Israel is impressive. From her position of power, she was privy to God's plans to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of King Jabin. Those plans, however, involved Barak bringing troops to Mount Tabor, so that God could deliver to him victory over Sisero, who commanded King Jabin's army. For some inexplicable reason, Barak wasn't acting very quickly upon God's command, so Deborah had him brought before her to remind him. For some other inexplicable reason (we aren't told that Deborah was breathtakingly beautiful, or a temptress), God's endorsement of the plan apparently wasn't good enough and Barak refused to proceed unless Deborah accompanied him to Mount Tabor. She acquiesced, but pointed out that if she were to go, the victory would be delivered to a woman, not to Barak. And, in fact, the enemy Sisero WAS delivered to the Israelites by the hand of a woman, though not by Deborah. As you read of Deborah's Military Leadership, consider also the role of the woman who brings death to Sisero.THE NEW TESTAMENTMary, Mother of Jesus
For a woman who always did what she was told, Mary, the Mother of Jesus, excites great controversy. Her quiet and joyful acquiescence to God's will is, at the very least, seen as representing a reversal of Eve's original disobedience; at the extreme, Mary is worshipped as the co-savior of mankind. She is present at various times throughout Jesus' life, though after his crucifixtion, with one posible exception, there is no mention of her remaining years or death. Mary's story is presented from different perspectives in the Gospels, and you should be familiar with each version.Story of Jesus' Conception
Mary's Perspective Also note the account of Elizabeth, who is the mother of John the Baptist.
Mary's Perspective of Jesus' birth and early life
Andrea Della Robbia, "Mary, Jesus, Three Cherubs, Italy, @mid-1400's, Enameled Terra Cotta, Louvre, Paris
Did Mary Remain a Virgin?
Many theologians submit that Mary remained a virgin her entire life, and they argue that the references to Jesus' brothers and sisters are merely symbolic references to the way in which Jesus was kin to all mankind. Consider the following passages about Mary as you evaluate such assertions:
Mary Asks to See Jesus As he Preaches in Temple and see also Luke 8:19-21
Jesus Preaches in his Hometown
Jesus' Perspective on Mary
As the passages above indicate, Jesus did not give special treatment to his mother Mary. In addition, consider this passage from Luke 11:27-28 when reviewing Mary's importance as the Mother of Christ.
Elizabeth: Can't An Old Woman Catch A Break?
Like Sarah from the Old Testament, Elizabeth was an elderly woman when her husband was told she would conceive a child. In fact, she and Mary were both pregnant at the same time with their soon-to-be-famous progeny (Elizabeth gave birth to a boy who would grow up to be known as John The Baptist). Mary spent time with Elizabeth while pregnant with Jesus. Elizabeth is mentioned in Mary's Perspective, above.
Domenico Ghirlandaio, "The Visitation" (Mary and Elizabeth), 1491, The Louvre, Paris
Salome: Sure, Blame the Mother (In This Case, She Might Deserve It)
Salome's story is pretty appalling. She's unfortunate enough to have a mother (Herodius) who (1) marries an uncle (Salome's dad) and then (2) decides the uncle's half-brother is more appealing and dumps Salome's father to marry this brother (Herod). Feeling a bit disgusted by this sordid affair? Well, so was everyone else. In fact, John The Baptist preached openly and loudly against the marriage, and many of Herod's subjects started grumbling that they were suffering God's wrath because Herod had married his brother's wife. Salome's mother wanted John The Baptist to shut up, permanently, but Herod refused to have him killed. Too many people loved John and killing him would only result in his martyrdom. Not one to worry about the consequences of her actions, however, Salome's mother apparently decided that when her own feminine wiles were insufficient to convince Herod to execute John The Baptist, perhaps her nubile daughter could do the trick. That's what centuries of art and literature have always implied, in any event. Herodius is often blamed for arranging that Salome perform the seductive Dance of the Seven Veils for Herod and a group of his cronies. Herod was so impressed with Salome's dance that he vowed publicly to give her anything she asked - including half his Kingdom. While Salome might have preferred a cell phone, her mother demanded that she ask her stepfather for John The Baptist's head. On a platter. Read the story of Salome's Seduction, and consider whether the text truly depicts Salome's mother using her daughter as sexual bait , or whether the events were simply a reflection of the culture. Oh, and you'll note that Salome is named nowhere in the text.Caravaggio, "Salome with the Head of John the Baptist," late 1500's, National Gallery, London
Martha: A Woman's Work Is Never Done -- or Is It?
Martha, her sister Mary, and their brother Lazarus were unique figures in the Bible because they were apparently intimate friends with Jesus. In fact, Jesus often was a guest in their home. Martha is perhaps most important in highlighting Jesus' position that a woman's role was more than simply to serve. As you read the Story of Martha's Sisterly Frustration in lines 38-42, note the clearly un-patriarchal stance Jesus takes, both regarding women and what's important in life.Mary Magdalene: The Woman Deserves More Credit Than She Gets (What Else is New?)
Traditionally, Mary Magdalene is portrayed as the prostitute whom Jesus cleansed of demons. Yet, as you read the Biblical accounts listed below, determine whether the text actually supports the idea that Mary worked in the oldest profession. In any event, Mary became a loyal disciple of Jesus. She was so important, in fact, that it was Mary Magdalene to whom Jesus first appeared after his crucifixion.
Luke 8: 1-3
Mark 16
John 20
Luca Signorelli, "Crucifiction with Mary Magdalene," 1500, Galleria degli Uffizi, Florence
WOMEN OF THE BIBLE ASSIGNMENTS
Please consult chart below for ELA Standards (in RI, they're known as Grade Span Expectations) and RubricsAssignment One: Double Process Essay Assignments (400 points total; 200 for content and 200 for process)
The essay topics are explained below. Please use the Writing Workshop link for detailed instructions.
A. Persuasive Essay: After reading the Women of the Bible wiki, and the accompanying readings, create a thesis statement identifying a pattern or patterns regarding the way women are portrayed in the Bible. Take any position you wish, but be prepared to back it up with evidence. Your paper will be graded not on whether I agree with your thesis, but whether you do a solid job defending that thesis. On the day of the Mad 40, you may bring in a note card with your thesis, topic sentences, and bullet pointed evidence to use while you write.
B. Informational Writing: Select a famous Bible story that interests you and write several paragraphs to add to the class wiki, using the tone and style of the current wiki. (It need not be a Biblical woman, as we can simply another page Wiki page for your subtopic; consider animals in the Bible, Kings, Fathers, Wars, Parables, etc.). On the day of the Mad 40, you may bring a note card with information and citations to include in your Wiki.
Assignment Two: Active Reading Notes and On-Line Group Discussion (50 points)
As you read and review all the material available in this Women in the Bible segment, take notes, create discussion questions, and look up any words with which you are unfamiliar (the answers.com widget should help with that). Then, participate in a half hour IM conversation with two or three other classmates of your choosing regarding your notes and the material in this Wiki. Please save the discussion in a Word Document that clearly identifies the participants and their screen names; then, print one copy of the document and hand it in on the agreed due date.
Assignment Three: Free Choice of Either "Women of the Bible Test" or 'Women of the Bible Creative Summary" (100 points)
Choice A: Multiple Choice Test; you may use your Active Reading Notes provided they do not contain wholesale quoting from the Bible excerpts or this Wiki. Do not assume this multiple choice test is the "easy out." My multilple choice format is designed to be challenging. That being said, it's good practice for college.
Choice B: Women of the Bible Creative Summary. This is your opportunity to showcase both your knowledge and your special talents. In essence, you must design a fun or practical summary of the Women of the Bible using whatever format at which you excel. There are three requirements:
(1) That you consider your own talents and strengths to determine how best to present.
(2) That you create a rubric for evaluating the creative aspect of your work using standards appropriate to whatever medium you choose.
(3) That you accurately and cleverly summarize, in writing, key aspects of the material presented here.
Here are some ideas, but don’t be constrained by these suggestions:
Assignment Four: Oral Presentation of Informational Writing (50 points)
Once you've completed Assignment One B (adding a possible section to the class wiki), you'll present your wiki and teach your information to the class. The best wikis will earn a permanent spot on this wiki. All will be graded using the Rubric linked below.
For Further Study (and perhaps some additional ideas regarding your Optional Creative Summary)
1. The Bible is the most widely illustrated piece of literature in the Western canon. You might wish to use Google Images to find other examples of some truly breathtaking art based on Biblical scenes.
2. It's interesting to understand how the various Biblical translations can change the meaning or context of the text. If you're ever interested in comparing a particular passage in several versions, use the Unbound Bible , which provides virtually every Bible translation available. It will do a side-by-side comparison of up to four translations at a time.
3. You already know that Johann Gutenberg invented moveable type, but how familiar are you with his Gutenberg Bible? According to the Harry Ransom Center at the University of Texas, Austin, there are only five complete copies in the United States. The Gutenberg Bible dates back to the 1400's. Take a look one here .
4. You might be interested in reading pre-year 800 writings regarding Biblical teaching, and the Christian Classics Library has many writings of "Early Church Fathers." Take a look at Tertullian's writings on modesty in women's apparel and how that connects to women bringing original sin into the world.
5. If you come across any Bible resources that you think might be interesting to others, add them please.
W12-10 Students use a recursive process, including prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and critiquing, to produce final drafts.
W12-11 Writing extensively
W12-6, W12-7, W12-8 Informational Writing: Reports, Procedures, or Persuasive Writing
OC-12-1.4 In oral communication, students demonstrate interactive listening by ... Participating in large and small group discussions showing respect for individual ideas (Local)
OC-12-2.5 In oral communication, students make oral presentations by ... Using a variety of strategies of address (e.g., eye contact, speaking rate, volume, articulation, enunciation, pronunciation, inflection, voice modulation, intonation, rhythm, and gesture) to communicate ideas effectively (Local)
OC-12-2.6 In oral communication, students make oral presentations by ... Using tools of technology to enhance message (Local)